28,000 were victims of domestic abuse over year

FEARS TRUE NUMBER IS MUCH HIGHER

TENS of thousands of people in Leicestershire fell victim to domestic abuse in the past year, according to latest estimates.

The figures, from Leicestershire County Council, suggest that more than 28,000 people in the county experienced abuse at the hands of their partners or other “loved ones” over the past 12 months.

That’s up from the 26,205 recorded the previous year, but it is feared the true figure is even higher, as many victims have never disclosed what is happening to them.

The council also believes 98,000 adults in Leicestershire will experience some form of domestic abuse in their lives.

That worrying picture is mirrored across the UK too, with year-on-year increases in the number of domestic abuse incidents.

The authority is set to invest more than £1.1 million to tackle domestic abuse by developing a new strategy, which it is asking the public to help it shape.

“Domestic abuse is sadly becoming an increasing issue and it’s absolutely vital we get this right, which is why we want to hear your views on our new strategy,” said Councillor Deborah Taylor, cabinet member for children and families.

“The government has given us a new duty to strengthen the level of support offered to families and, with this, funding of more than £1.1 million has been given to us to make this happen.

“Our strategy goes beyond this but we really want as many people as possible to have their say and help us shape our plans and support services going forward.”

Five priorities have been identified as part of the council’s Domestic Abuse Reduction Strategy, with the first focused on early intervention and prevention. The funds would also aim to provide targeted support,

provide more reachable services and allow more supportive and safe accommodation for victims.

There are also aims to improve partnerships between agencies to hold perpetrators to account.

These are all part of a consultation that the county council is running on its domestic abuse services. That closes on December 21. Coun Taylor

urged anyone suffering to come forward. “If you are experiencing domestic abuse, don’t suffer in silence. Contact our support helpline, take that first step and seek support,” she said.

Anyone who has experienced domestic abuse can call United Against Violence and Abuse (UAVA) on 0808 8020028 or visit its website.